James Rodriguez Close to Real Madrid Move as Di Maria Replacement

One of the World Cup's biggest sensations James Rodriguez is set for a move to Real Madrid should Los Blancos sell Argentine winger Angel Di Maria.

The 22-year-old Colombian playmaker -- who for some has been the player of the tournament so far during the group stages and the last-16 round -- has led his side to the quarter-final after netting an amazing brace in their 2-0 victory over Uruguay, becoming the first player since the 2002 competition to score in the first four matches.

Di Maria's future at the Santiago Bernabeu has been under increasing scrutiny since Gareth Bale's arrival last summer. Even though he eventually managed to cement a place in Carlo Ancelotti's starting-line up by adapting to a deeper role, he believes the club do not value him highly enough – and, according to AS, is ready to leave this summer.

Marca, meanwhile, claims that Real are ready to open talks with Monaco to secure Rodriguez's services to replace Di Maria. However, his exit from Stade Louis II will not be easy as the Ligue 1 big spenders paid around £40m to Porto to secure his services last summer. Nevertheless it will not stop Los Blancos trying to negotiate a deal.

Rodriguez recently revealed his passion for Real Madrid, hinting at a possible future move to the Bernabeu: "It would be a dream to play there, it is the best league in the world. I prefer Real Madrid to Barcelona.

And on his performances at the World Cup: "Right now I'm not aware of what I'm achieving; I'm on the inside, focused, and I don't know what people are saying outside. Maybe when I come out I'll be more aware of it. Right now I'm happy and focused on playing every game as if it were my last."

Madrid have given Di Maria a £40m price tag with Monaco currently leading the race for his signature – and the Ligue 1 club could sweeten the deal by including either Rodriguez or Radamel Falcao as part of the deal.